Annual Conference
The Annual Conference is our flagship national event, supporting water professionals since its inception in 1945. Bookings will open in early 2026, alongside the launch of our early-bird rate, so keep an eye out for updates. In the meantime, save the date in your calendar!
About the Annual Conference
Hosted in a different location each year, aligned with our President and designed to connect with every corner of our UK membership, the conference is a cornerstone for learning, professional development, and networking across the water sector.
Most importantly, our conference reflects the values of our organisation by creating an inclusive and welcoming space where all water professionals can thrive.
We’re delighted to announce that our Annual Conference 2026 will take place on 17-18 September at the Jumeriah Carlton Tower, 1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY
Why attend the Annual Conference?
Sian Rogerson, Principal Consultant at Stantec, shares what draws her to the Institute of Water Annual Conference.
Passionate about her career in the water sector, Sian explains the importance of staying up to date with industry developments, understanding cultural and operational challenges, and using the conference as a platform for learning and professional growth.
What you can expect
In addition to our Annual Conference, we host a series of associated events each year designed to complement and enrich participants’ overall experience. These occasions offer unique opportunities for networking and socialising, set in remarkable and historic venues that add an extra touch of magic.
Click to watch an overview of all the 2025 events, where we celebrated 80 years of IWater and the Annual Conference.
Our themes
Each year, the Annual Conference centers on a theme reflecting the water sector’s key challenges, priorities, and opportunities. The programme explores a wide range of topics relevant to all water professionals. Recent themes include:
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2025 – Full Stream Ahead: Accelerating Action for a Sustainable Future
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2024 – Challenging Waters, United Purpose
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2023 – Trust in Water: An Invaluable Element
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2022 – Great Expectations: Reconciling the Demands on Our Sector to Deliver for Today and Tomorrow
What our participants say:
“We send employees to the Institute of Water Annual Conference every year as it is a great opportunity to support continuous professional development and collaboratively work with other water companies. Attending this event allows our employees to network with other like-minded water professionals and make valuable connections. The event is good for those new to the industry to learn and gain insight from speakers and other attendees, but also good for those with experience in the industry who are looking to broaden their knowledge and get involved. The event educates and highlights on all areas in the water sector which can help to inspire career choices. Our employees that have attended the event always provide highly positive feedback and it is something we are very passionate about being involved in as a business.”
Portsmouth Water
“It is an excellent personal development opportunity and a chance for people to lift their heads beyond the day jobs and gain a broader perspective.”
Simon Cyhanko, Head of Wastewater Networks, Northumbrian Water Group
“For those who have never been before, it is so much more than just the two day Conference. I thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to listen to such a broad range of speakers and to be a part of an open discussion on this important aspect of both our sector and our lives.”
Graham Powell, Fellow, Institute of Water
“I was thrilled to be able to speak at the Annual Conference on how our political engagement work is helping to rebuild trust in the sector. Everyone was so supportive and kind in their feedback afterwards and it sparked loads of great conversations.”
Lydia Dareheath CEnv, Public Affairs Manager, Anglian Water
Get involved as a Sponsor or Exhibitor
Each year, our Annual Conference and associated events grant an unparalleled opportunity for sector organisations to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of water.
Showcase your brand, products, and services to a diverse audience of water professionals, experts, and decision-makers. Benefit from extensive visibility before, during, and after the event.
Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to be a driving force in the advancement of the water sector.
Sponsor and Exhibitor feedback
“Adler & Allan was proud to sponsor the Institute of Water 80th anniversary year-long campaign culminating in the industry leading annual conference. This year’s focus on building a more resilient and sustainable future aligns perfectly with our mission – ensuring environmental compliance to create a more sustainable economy and put ESG into action. As environmental specialists for the water and wastewater sector, we recognise the importance of driving industry growth and supporting the people within it. We hugely valued the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and stakeholders, share insights on emerging challenges, and collaborate on the future of water sustainability.”
Adler & Allan
“Partnering with the Institute of Water has enabled Capgemini to be at the forefront of meaningful progress within the water sector. This collaboration enables us to connect deeply with industry leaders and stakeholders, exchange valuable insights on emerging challenges, and foster a shared commitment to sustainable and resilient water solutions. Working alongside the Institute of Water and its members, we gain unique perspectives on industry dynamics and client needs, helping us strengthen relationships with key clients. Together, we are advancing innovation, building stronger alliances, and driving impactful development for the sector.”
Capgemini
“As an exhibitor at the IWater conferences, CABWI has direct access to a wide ranging number of senior managers and technicians across all of the water companies and the ability to have meaningful conversations regarding their training requirements.”
Paul Byrne, Chief Executive Officer, CABWI
“Aqua Consultants were pleased to be a sponsor and enjoyed opening some of the sessions. It’s kicked off collaboration with the Institute and others. I was happy to return after several years; the sessions were relevant and informative, and the evening entertainment was excellent too- thank you!”
Neal Edmondson, Director of Shared Capability, Aqua Consultants